How to Get Rid of Skin Tags on Dogs: Safe Home and Professional Methods

Skin tags on dogs are not dangerous, but they can become irritated if they get caught on something, so many pet owners want to know how to get rid of them at home or through professional grooming. Skin tags are benign growths that are made up of skin and can appear almost anywhere on a dog's body, although they are most common on the head, neck, legs, and belly. While it may be tempting to cut them off, at-home removal can be risky and may require the help of your vet to avoid complications like bleeding and infection.

To help you deal with this issue, we'll provide in-depth information based on the latest veterinary knowledge about how to recognize, assess, and safely treat skin tags on dogs. This information will include a range of safe removal options, from home remedies to professional treatments, that will help you get your dog's skin back to its healthy, smooth state. We'll also explain how you can help prevent skin tags from coming back by keeping up with good hygiene and grooming practices for your dog.

How to Spot and Diagnose Skin Tags on Dogs

Skin tags are small, harmless growths that look like fleshy bumps or stalks on the skin. They can be anywhere from a few millimeters to a few centimeters in size and can be flat, raised, or pedunculated (hanging), according to James Wellbeloved. Skin tags are usually pink but can also be darker and may be found alone or in groups.

The most common places for skin tags to form are in areas where the skin rubs against itself or other surfaces, including the head, neck, legs, armpits, and groin, according to PetMD. Skin tags can be caused by a variety of factors, including obesity, allergies, and sleeping on hard surfaces, but the most common cause is friction from collars and harnesses.

Although skin tags are usually harmless, any new or changing growth should be checked by a vet to rule out more serious issues. According to MetLife Pet Insurance, skin tags can become infected if they are injured and start to drain pus. That's why it's important to keep an eye on any growths for changes in size, shape, color, or irritation.

There are several different types of skin tags that dogs can develop. The most common are fibroadnexal (hairless, on lower legs) and follicular (around hair follicles, often in flat groups). Older dogs can also develop collagenous nevi, which are large, friction-induced growths, or fibromas - benign tumors, according to MetLife Pet Insurance. A vet can diagnose the type of skin tag and make sure it's treated properly.

Safe Home Remedies for Skin Tag Removal

Although most articles warn against removing skin tags at home, there are some safe, natural remedies you can use to help your pet deal with skin tags without the help of a professional. According to Dogs Naturally, a cold compress can be used to help reduce inflammation and provide some relief. They also recommend using chamomile tea, witch hazel, coconut oil, or aloe vera to help soothe the skin.

That said, Bored Panda warns against home remedies like apple cider vinegar, liquid nitrogen, or burning off skin tags, as they can be dangerous. If you do decide to try to remove skin tags at home, make sure you practice good hygiene and sterilization. PetHelpful also recommends talking to a vet before you try to remove skin tags at home, as doing it incorrectly can lead to infection or other issues.

Veterinary Skin Tag Removal Options

The Southside Veterinary Hospital explains that the best and safest way to deal with a skin tag on a dog is to take the dog to the vet for an examination. This will allow the vet to make an accurate diagnosis and determine whether the skin tag is benign or something more serious. Once the vet has made a diagnosis, they can remove the skin tag by freezing it off. This is done with a special instrument and is considered to be virtually painless for the dog.

Whole Dog Journal points out that skin tags on a dog's eyelid may need to be removed by a vet because they can rub on the cornea and cause corneal ulcers. Otherwise, skin tags are typically left alone unless they become irritated or ulcerated. In these cases, a vet can remove the skin tag either surgically, with a laser, or by electrocautery.

According to New Dog Tips, the cost of veterinary skin tag removal can range from $50 to $500, depending on the method used. Surgical removal is typically the least expensive, while laser removal is the most expensive. Cryotherapy, or freezing the skin tag off, is usually in the middle. While pet insurance can help cover these costs, it typically won't cover the cost of over-the-counter treatments.

When determining which option is best, important considerations include the dog's health status, the size and location of the skin tag, and the cost of the procedure. A comprehensive evaluation by a vet is essential to determine the best course of action.

How to Avoid and Treat Skin Tags in Dogs

Since skin tags are often a result of skin-on-skin friction, pet parents can take steps to help their dogs avoid these growths. According to Hill's Pet, environmental factors such as dirty living conditions, exposure to toxic chemicals, and mold can all lead to skin tags. Meanwhile, PetHelpful explains that parasites, harsh grooming products, over-bathing, and poor diet can also make dogs more susceptible to skin tags.

To avoid skin tags, pet parents should focus on feeding their dogs a healthy diet, grooming them regularly, and making sure they have comfortable bedding and well-fitting collars or harnesses, according to PetHelpful. It's also important to address any underlying health issues that could lead to skin irritation, such as allergies and obesity. In addition, keeping skin folds clean and dry can help reduce the friction and irritation that can lead to skin tags.

In the end, the best way to treat skin tags in dogs is to stay vigilant and report any changes or concerns to a veterinarian as soon as possible. As Hill's Pet explains, while most skin tags don't need to be treated, it's important to have a vet check out any new or changing growths to make sure they're benign.

Conclusion: How to Keep Your Dog's Skin Healthy

Skin tags are a common, generally harmless condition in dogs, but they can become problematic if irritated or infected. By understanding how to properly identify, evaluate, and manage skin tags, pet owners can take steps to keep their dog's skin healthy.

The key is working closely with a veterinarian, as they can safely remove any problematic skin tags and provide guidance on prevention. Maintaining good grooming habits, using appropriate bedding and collars, and addressing any underlying skin issues can also help discourage new skin tags from forming.

Ultimately, regular monitoring and prompt reporting of changes to a vet are crucial for managing skin tags and maintaining your dog's overall skin health. With the right care, you can help your furry friend feel comfortable and confident in their own skin.